Are You Getting The Most The Use Of Your Replacement Double Glazing Sealed Units?
Replacement Double Glazed Units Double glazed units, or sealed units as they're also known, can wear out over time. This typically happens because the insulating properties in the inert gas that is between the glass panes break down. It is essential to replace a broken window to ensure that your home is energy efficient and well-insulated. The process is fairly simple and easy. Installation If the window is installed correctly, the new unit will fit firmly in place and fit snugly inside the frame. If the new glazed window is not the same thickness that your old one was, you may have to adjust the 'packers' (usually red or bluish plastic slips) in the frame. If you are unsure how to do this then consult your installer or the instructions of the manufacturer for advice. A good quality replacement double glazed seal is made to the highest standards and should fit into your frame with a minimum of hassle. However, a small error can have an enormous impact on the performance of your window, and must be inspected attentively. Modern double-glazed units are an excellent addition to any home. They are energy efficient and can save you money. They are constructed with the argon gas between the panes to provide insulation and thus reduce the amount of heat that could escape from your home during cold winter months. However, there are times when these units fail or have issues with their seals. This happens when moisture enters the air cavity and causes condensation. The presence of moisture in the cavity of your windows is not just ugly, but also reduces the effectiveness and efficiency of the glass unit. Check for a fogginess or misty appearance in between your window panes. This could be a sign that the seal between the two glass panes is broken and water is entering your living spaces. The first thing you need to do is to remove the glass beads that surround the window edges. It's difficult and messy, however it's worth it as you will have access to the gasket for wedges that holds the glass in place. It is important to remove the beads with care to ensure they don't break. It is advisable to ask for help. be helpful at this point. After the beads have been removed and the sealed unit is free of them, allow it to slide a bit out of the frame. With a helper holding it in place while you accurately measure its size, height and width. This is crucial because it determines the dimensions of the wedge gasket you need to cut for the brand new double-glazed sealed unit. Checking Double glazing units, or sealed units as they are often called, can fail over time. This usually happens due to a breach in the seal that allows condensation and moisture to get into the space between the panes. This affects how the window is able to block out cold air, heat produced by the heating system in the home and solar gain inside the window. A seal failure can cause draughts in the home. It is crucial to regularly check your double-glazed windows for indications of failure. If you see water or misting between the glass, this is an indication that the seal is not working and a new one should be installed. It is essential to replace the sealed unit with the proper size. The uPVC frames which the sealed unit is placed in are not tolerant of moving, so even a few millimetres too big could affect the performance of the window. To be certain that you are ordering the right size, it's best to consult an expert or the manufacturer's guide. Slide the new unit into the frame with the help of a friend. It is essential that you make this move in a secure spot because the glass is fragile and can be thrown out and break. After the sealed unit is securely in the frame re-attach any packers at the bottom of the frame, and then place the glazing beads back into their original positions. Once you've completed this take the window for an extensive visual inspection to ensure there aren't any gaps and that it is not misaligned. You may also need to apply a small amount of sealant around the perimeter edge of the frame in order to prevent it from shifting in the future. It is also a good idea to re-check the thickness the glass unit. This is important as double-glazed units come in various thicknesses, and if you choose the wrong one, it can affect the u-value of your home's insulation. Sealing Double glazing can boost the efficiency of your home and also provide better acoustics. Over time, the seals of the glass may get worn out, leading to misted or drooping windows. In these instances replacement is required. It's a good idea work with a double glazing professional who can assist you in selecting the most suitable glass products, make precise measurements and ensure proper installation. When replacing a sealed unit the first step is clean the frame. Use an old paintbrush (4 inches is ideal) to clean the frame, getting rid of dust that has built up over time. Once the frame is clean it's a good idea give the new seals a clean too. The most efficient method to do this is to lever out the Wedge gaskets by putting your fingers on the edge, and then pulling it out at the point where it is in contact with the friction joint. It is also important to make an outline of the length you require for your new seals since it will be helpful when cutting them to size. double glazed window seal repair of the sealed unit is straightforward after the gaskets and frame have been cleaned. It's a great idea to take off the beads (the UPVC frames clips that are used to hold the glasses) and measure the size of them. This will ensure the seal is built to the correct dimensions and ensure there aren't any gaps in it. After the beads have been reinserted, you can start with the top one and work your way down to the other. After sealing the units, do not be touching them for a few hours as the silicone sealant needs to set and harden. I usually wait about 6 hours before handling it, however the silicone sealant's setting time can vary. Finishing Once the new double glazed unit is securely seated within its frame, it's time to seal and finish. This is more than a physical closure to the project; it's an assurance that your home is prepared to face the elements with its new secure guardian securely in its place. The first step involves cleaning the frame and taking out any glazing beads strips, or other materials that were used to secure the old glass. The frame is cleaned of dirt and old sealant as well as glazing tape, a process which also renews the timber or aluminium of the frame of the window. This is also the moment to make any small repairs using wood filler and sanding, if needed. For major damage, you should seek out an expert. Next, the spacer tubes are filled with desiccants to adsorb any moisture trapped between the two panes of glass during manufacture or over time. This is the standard procedure for a warm edge sealed unit. Thermoseal Group stocks a range of desiccants as well as manual or automated dispensers for desiccant. After the spacers have been filled, the glass is sealed with a high performance silicone designed to withstand Australia's harsh climate. This sealant creates a tight barrier that's both robust and flexible capable of expanding and contract without becoming fragile or breaking. It is essential to choose the correct thickness as any gaps can affect thermal performance. Ask a professional for advice or refer to the manual of the manufacturer if you are unsure about the thickness you should use. The final step is to add secondary sealant. This is usually polyisobutylene, or a similar substance. It's applied to outside edges of the frame and creates a secondary seal capable of repelling moisture and stop air penetration which can increase the efficiency of energy. The frame is then adorned with an aluminum cladding. This protective coating will endure the elements and keep your frame looking new for a long time. It's a smart investment for the long-term durability of your home's frame, particularly in the case of historic homes or federation homes, where wooden frames are susceptible to rot and degradation.